homes for sale in Oviedo, Oviedo homes for sale, Oviedo real estate

What most realtors love about their job is the people, freedom, and profits! The real estate industry is always evolving, making the job interesting and always keeps it fresh.

There is, however, a dark side. Realtors who may not know a client well could put themselves into harm’s way. As a realtor, you are called to meet clients at properties that may be unoccupied and isolated. Even driving a client in a car places the realtor in a truly vulnerable situation.

Every Day Dangers

A recent report out of Iowa reminds realtors everywhere of the real danger. A female realtor received a call from an unknown individual, who told her because her business card had been picked randomly and she would now be the target of his gang’s initiation process. The threat implied some harm would be happening to her during an open house that was scheduled for later that day.

The realtor contacted police along with her broker, which cancelled all open houses for the day. Whether it was just a prank call or a real threat, the situation reminds us all just how susceptible realtors are to crime.

Safety Tips for Realtors

This story occurred just before the start of REALTOR® Safety Month, which begins in September. The reason REALTOR® Safety Month was created to bring awareness to realtors and the public in general about the real dangers real estate professionals face in the field.

To stay safe, Oviedo real estate professionals should keep in mind these tips:

Meet at the Office

When you have a new client, your initially meeting should happen at your Oviedo real estate office when other people are present. Ask clients to complete a Prospect Identification Form that requires names, addresses, phone numbers, and other identifying information be completed. Also ask to photocopy driver’s licenses as part of their file. Do not take this information with you, keep it at the office for safety purposes.

Accountability Partner

Always let someone know where you are meeting a client and which Ovideo homes for sale you are planning on showing the client. Set a time when you are expecting to be back so a quick response can happen in case of a late arrival. Also be sure to share the client’s name and phone number with your accountability partner so if you cannot be reached, they may be contacted.

Always Walk Behind

Oviedo real estate agents often take the lead and walk ahead of their clients when showing a home. Bad idea. This makes you defenseless to an attack. Have your prospective buyers walk ahead of you by gesturing with hands for them to go through the door or down a hallway. By positioning yourself just slightly behind them and directing them with your actions and words, they can remain clearly in view.

Prepare an Exit

If a situation is becoming uncomfortable for any reason having a ready excuse is a great way to immediately get yourself away from a client. Some excuses you might want to use: “Another realtor is on the way with buyers” “I’ve left some important papers in the car” “The office just messaged me so I have to call the office”.

Stay safe and happy selling!

Florida Realty News
Florida Realty News
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty, a wholly-owned subsidiary of WCI Communities, has over 39 locations and more than 1,650 real estate sales professionals and team members serving 17 counties throughout Florida.
Show Buttons
Hide Buttons